Spotlight for A Good Animal by Sara Maurer

 

A Good Animal by Sara Maurer

Published:  February 24, 2026 by St. Martin’s Press

Genre:  Historical Fiction, Coming of Age

Taken from Goodreads:  A heart-wrenching coming-of-age debut novel by a stunning new voice in fiction, for readers of Barbara Kingsolver and Ann Patchett.

In the farm country outside Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan—a border town where life moves slow and dreams run fast—most kids want out. Not Everett Lindt. He’s set on staying put, rebuilding his family’s sheep farm, and carving a future from the land he loves.

Then he meets Mary, a new girl in town with restless energy and bigger plans. When their relationship reaches a crossroads, Everett sees a life together; Mary, however, is desperate to find a way out. Together, they make an impulsive choice—one that will change everything.

Tense, lyrical, and deeply felt, Sara Maurer's unforgettable debut breathtakingly captures the ache of first love, the beauty and brutality of rural life, and how one decision can echo through generations and shape who we become.

 

Add to your MUST-READ list on Goodreads

Purchase your own copy on Amazon

 

Meet the Author (taken from her website): Sara Maurer's debut novel, A GOOD ANIMAL, a Book of the Month Club Exclusive, is forthcoming from St. Martin's Press in February 2026. Place deeply informs Sara’s writing, particularly how it influences identity and choice. She attended Albion College and Eastern Michigan University and completed the Stanford Continuing Studies certificate in novel writing in 2022. In 2023, she was selected as a Suzanne M. Wilson Artist-in-Residence at the Glen Arbor Arts Center.

She lives in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with her husband, two kids, and mini Dachshund.

 

 "From the first sentence of her debut novel, Sara Maurer transports us to picturesque Sault Ste. Marie, where the rural way of life feels frozen in time. Everett Lindt is certain of his future there, even after he meets a new girl in town with big dreams. With pitch perfect prose, Maurer captures the intensity of Everett’s first love, and the haunting mistakes he makes despite his good intentions." 

—Tracey Lange, New York Times bestselling author of We Are the Brennans

"A nostalgic and poignant coming-of-age novel that takes place in rural Michigan, A Good Animal will hook you the moment you read the haunting prologue. Maurer juxtaposes a teen's yearning to grow up against not being fully ready for adult responsibilities—along with the contrast of beauty and joy against the sometimes harsh realities of life and death on a farm—and bottles it up into a story of all the ways love shapes us that you won’t want to put down.” 

—Kristin Koval, author of Penitence

Book Review for Where the False Gods Dwell by Denny S. Bryce

 

Where the False Gods Dwell by Denny S. Bryce

Published:  February 24, 2026 by Kensington

Genre:  Historical Fiction

Taken from Goodreads:  Inspired by real-life legendary choreographer Katherine Dunham’s groundbreaking expedition into the heart of Caribbean dance culture, this uniquely captivating novel imagines the experiences of three very different women who accompany her, hoping to find their destinies—yet find themselves forced to survive a historic event . . .


Chicago, 1935. Othella is an orphaned con artist who needs to escape the city's brutal underworld... or else. Vivian Jean is a wealthy wife, student, and anthropologist eager to prove herself professionally and personally. Zinzi is a Jamaican labor union activist determined to bring change to her homeland's plantation system. Thanks to a series of fortunate mishaps and coincidences, all three join Dunham’s voyage to the Maroon village of Accompong in Jamaica’s Cockpit Country—and perhaps discover what they desperately want most . . .


Through skill and curiosity, Othella becomes a valued member of the expedition, even as she struggles to conceal her past. Zinzi's knowledge of the Cockpit allows the expedition to explore uncharted territory, even as a forbidden love and fierce resistance threaten everything she seeks to protect. As Vivian Jean’s observations help Dunham make unprecedented discoveries, she grapples with her second husband's guilt and accusations. Yet, amidst their private battles, nature presents an even greater challenge . . .


As deadly Hurricane Jérémie bears down on the island, imperiling the women’s mission—and their lives—they must form a difficult sisterhood. As the storm rages outside the small parish that is their shelter, they will need each other more than anyone or anything they’ve ever needed.

 

My Thoughts:  Denny S. Bryce is a must-read historical fiction author.   She is someone I look forward to reading because I know that I will be pulled into a book usually about a historical event that I do not know much about.  The story of Hurricane Jeremie and Accompong Jamaica is not something I am familiar with so I was excited to pick up Where the False Gods Dwell. 

I tried so hard to connect with the characters, I wanted to be invested in their story, but I could not.   I wanted to be pulled into the story and never wanted to leave.  I just struggled.  I wanted more of the Jamaican feel, more of the authenticity of Jamaican life.  The story of the hurricane was not as big of a part of the story as I anticipated. 

I hope that I am in the minority and most people will love this book.    I will still auto purchase Denny S. Bryce’s future books, she is still a must-read author. 

Thank you Kensington for a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

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Purchase your own copy on Amazon

Meet the Author(taken from her website):  Denny S. Bryce is the bestselling, award-winning author of five novels. She is also an NPR book critic, an adjunct professor at Drexel University, and a freelance writer who has written for Harper’s Bazaar and USA Today. A member of the Historical Novel Society, Women’s Fiction Writers Association, and Tall Poppy Writers, her novels explore themes of love, family, resilience, and the complexities of identity and issues of race, class, and gender. Currently residing in Savannah, Georgia, she is an avid fan of genre television, dance (in all its forms), and a variety of music styles, including jazz, R&B, and classical.

 

 

Release Blitz for The Garden of Forgotten Things by Maeve Garner

 

The Garden of Forgotten Things by Maeve Garner is now live!

Some secrets refuse to stay buried—no matter how many hearts they break in the telling…

All Regina McClaine needed was a break. A quiet place to recover from the devastating betrayal that wrecked her professional life…and love life. Her great aunt Muriel’s renovated mansion in Jasper Lake seemed like the perfect place for a fresh start. Until she found herself haunted—literally—by an enigmatic ghost.

Security specialist Knox Sinclair arrived at the lake with secrets of his own. But Muriel asked him to investigate threats against the mansion, and that’s what he intended to do. Until Regina—a woman as beautiful as she was clearly hiding something—snagged his full attention and changed everything…

In a garden blooming with betrayals, unsolved mysteries, and second chances, can Regina put her faith in Knox when it matters most? Or is trust a luxury she simply can’t afford?

The Garden of Forgotten Things, Book 2 in the Jasper Lake Series, is an emotional, slow-burn, small town romantic suspense/gothic romance with paranormal/supernatural elements. Grab your copy today and welcome to Jasper Lake, where restoration means breaking open the walls—and the heart—to let the truth in.

 Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Amazon US: https://bit.ly/49h6rbG       

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4aUR4Hf 

 

Meet Maeve Garner

Maeve Garner grew up in a small Midwestern town, where front porches, winding backroads, and close-knit communities sparked her love for small town romance. When she's not writing, Maeve enjoys cooking for her family, tending to her flowers, and planning her next adventure--preferably somewhere with beautiful views and a cozy place to relax. She has a soft spot for dogs and happily-ever-afters, and most days you'll find her in her favorite chair, dreaming up swoon-worthy heroes and spirited heroines who always find their way home. 

 

Connect with Maeve

Website | https://www.maevegarner.com/   

Goodreads | https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/29762271.Maeve_Garner   

Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/author/maevegarner       

Instagram |  https://www.instagram.com/maevegarnerauthor/        

Newsletter |  https://www.maevegarner.com/  

Spotlight for SIX LITTLE WORDS by Sally Page

 

SIX LITTLE WORDS  by Sally Page 

Blackstone Publishing; on sale February 24, 2026 

Genre:  Chick lit

Taken from Goodreads:   Can one small note give her the courage to find a new path?One Note. One Act of kindness. Her new beginning is closer than she thinks.

Kate gave up her dreams of being a painter years ago. But six little words pinned to the noticeboard of her local café could change her path forever.

‘To be, or not to be…’ – printed on orange card with no explanation – appears one morning.

Each day, a new line from a different Shakespeare play is added, sparking curiosity throughout the café. Among the regulars is Bardy, a retired English teacher grappling with writer’s block.

As Kate and Bardy follow this breadcrumb trail, they discover a local community group encouraging people to rediscover their own creative spark – and the long-lost courage to chase it.

For Kate, their new group might just offer a second chance at happiness, if only Bardy can find the strength to share his story too…

 

Add to your MUST-READ list on Goodreads

Purchase your own copy on Amazon

 

About Sally Page: 

Sally Page is the internationally bestselling author of The Keeper of Stories, The Book of Beginnings, and The Secret of Flowers. After studying history at university, Sally moved to London to work in advertising. In her spare time, she studied floristry, eventually opening up her own flower shop, an experience that offered a unique window into people’s lives that has inspired her writing. She has two daughters, the author Libby Page and Alex, a doctor. She lives in Dorset. 

Advance Praise for SIX LITTLE WORDS:

 

“Six Little Words is a marvel—it is funny, thought-provoking, and comforting all at once. Sally Page has a gift for creating lovable characters who feel instantly familiar and a fictional landscape that is a joy to return to each night.”

—Clare Leslie Hall, bestselling author of Broken Country 

 

“Six Little Words is a beautifully heartwarming story of hope, love, and friendship...Sally Page writes with such vivid elegance, transporting readers into the windswept Norfolk marshes. A gorgeous gem of a story.”

—Freya Sampson, bestselling author of The Last Chance Library 

 

“Brimful of joy, hope, and all the feels—I loved it!”

—Faith Hogan, bestselling author of The Ladies' Midnight Swimming Club 

 

“I adored this heartwarming and witty book that explores how creativity can spark new connections and fill your life with color. Guaranteed to make you smile.”

—Jo Leevers, bestselling author of Tell Me How This Ends 

 

“A lovely, life-affirming novel of friendship, community, and kindness...Sally Page has created a world that feels wonderfully real in the best way possible.”

—AJ Pearce, author of Dear Mrs. Bird 

 

 

Available Now!! Whisper Sweet Nothings by Laura Pavlov

 

Whisper Sweet Nothings by Laura Pavlov is now live! A Small Town, Single Dad, Nanny, Age Gap Standalone Romance from USA Today and Amazon #1 Bestselling Author, Laura Pavlov. Winnie Smith is the perfect nanny. She’s reliable, warm, and my daughter adores her. She cooks like a pro, styles pigtails like a fairy godmother, and knows her way around a car engine better than most mechanics. She’s made life easier. The house feels full again. And maybe… so do I. But living under the same roof has its challenges. Like catching her in the kitchen after midnight… barefoot, in tiny sleep shorts, eating ice cream straight from the tub. Don’t even get me started on the way that her lips wrapped around that spoon. I digress. It shouldn’t mean anything. She’s a decade younger. I’m her boss. She’s off-limits. And yet, it’s all I can think about. I was just looking for a nanny—not nightly cold showers and definitely not feelings. But the more we blur the lines, the harder it is to keep pretending. We say it’s temporary. No strings. Just one harmless arrangement. But what if she’s not just what my daughter needs… What if she’s exactly what I’ve been missing too? Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited https://bit.ly/3MCOCeF Paperback: https://amzn.to/4aE3n96 Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4aGlBqx Audiobook: https://geni.us/WSNAUDIO Narrated by: Sebastian York & @savannahpeachwood Goodreads: https://bit.ly/48WD6lz

Book Review for Pinky Swear by Danielle Girard

 

Pinky Swear by Danielle Girard

Published: February 24, 2026 by Atria/Emily Bestler Books

Genre:  Mystery Thriller, Suspense

Taken from Goodreads:  From Danielle Girard, the USA TODAY bestselling author who “effortlessly ratchets up the tension” (J.T. Ellison, New York Times bestselling author), comes a pulse-pounding thriller about a young woman whose surrogate disappears just days before the baby’s due date, leading to a frantic search that uncovers dark truths and the power of a mother’s love.

Lexi thought she knew everything about Mara Vannatta. Best friends since middle school, they drifted apart after a tragedy derailed their senior year. But when Mara shows up on Lexi’s doorstep sixteen years later fleeing an abusive husband, Lexi takes her in without question. Lexi’s own marriage has been strained by her desire to have a baby, and when Mara offers to become her surrogate, their friendship feels stronger than ever.

But four days before the due date, Mara disappears.

Lexi is shocked but certain there must be something wrong—Mara would never willingly leave with her unborn child. Or would she? As she embarks on a perilous cross-country hunt for the truth, Lexi is forced to reconsider a friendship she thought she knew—and what really happened that terrible night their senior year. How many secrets lie in their shared past, waiting to be uncovered? And just how far will Lexi go to bring her child safely home?

 

My Thoughts:  Umm, hello??  What did I just read?   This book is amazing!   I cannot believe it is my first Danielle Girard book but definitely not my last.   I could not get enough of this book, the characters are relatable and quirky, and the storyline was full of twists and turns.  This is a book that I can see being on my top reads of 2026 list.

 

The themes of motherhood and friendship made the story relatable but the twists and turns kept me knowing there was so much more to come.  The current friendship is built off their history and that history is full of surprises and secrets.  Motherhood is a tough topic at time and this story hit some hard motherhood times.

 

Thank you Atria Books for a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Add to your MUST-READ list on Goodreads

Purchase your own copy on Amazon

 

Meet the Author (taken from her website):  Danielle Girard is the USA Today and Amazon #1 bestselling author of sixteen novels, including the Annabelle Schwartzman Series, Chasing Darkness, and The Rookie Club series. Her books have won the Barry Award, the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, and White Out was in the top 100 bestselling e-books of 2020. In addition, two of her titles have been optioned for screen. Her next thriller, Pinky Swear, will be out from the Emily Bestler Imprint of Atria books February 24, 2026.

 

Danielle is also the creator and host of the Killer Women podcast, where she interviews the women who write today’s best crime fiction. A graduate of Cornell University, Danielle received her MFA in Creative Writing at Queens University of Charlotte, North Carolina. When she’s not traveling, Danielle lives in the mountains of Montana. 

 

 

 

 

Release Blitz for Shattered Hopes by Addy Anders

 

Shattered Hopes by Addy Anders is now live!

He stole my brother. So, I stole his freedom…

There’s a villain in all of us.

I just never realized that until the worst day of my life.

It started with a sandwich from a stranger. An act of kindness that was nothing more than a veneer to hide the devil behind the mask.

Renzo Iannelli took everything from me that day. My family. My life. My future.

I wasn’t even a blip on his radar when he made me an orphan—left alone to be bruised and abused in foster care—all for the sake of his revenge.

Well, he got his. Now, I’m going to get mine.

No matter how long it takes, no matter what I have to sacrifice, I will make him rue the day he destroyed my life.

But the world is never black and white, and there are far more heartless monsters closing in around me.

So what happens when the devil I know becomes the only person I can trust?

He was my downfall.

I never expected him to also be my redemption. 

 Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Amazon US: https://bit.ly/4jCdq2M  

Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/sW9H2bK       

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4bigGhp 

 

Meet Addy Anders

Addy Anders writes dark romance meant to tug hard on your heartstrings and never let go. Her books deliver deliciously possessive anti-heroes, strong heroines, a touch of angst to set you on edge, and a cocktail of spice.

Addy loves to travel, preferably outside of major cities. When she's not writing or out in the wilderness, she can be found with her kindle and a very large cup of tea surrounded by her very supportive husband, two kiddos, and two fur babies.

 

Connect with Addy

 Website | https://www.addyandersbooks.com/   

Goodreads | https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/56699168.Addy_Anders   

Amazon | http://bit.ly/4mhL79i  

Instagram |  https://www.instagram.com/addyanders_author/